British Airways opens door to inflight calls – will other countries follow?
by Sharyn McCullum | Apr 7, 2026 | News
British Airways opens door to inflight calls – will other countries follow?
British Airways passengers will now be allowed to make phone calls on their flight, including video calls. The update follows the airlines partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink. That connection already allows passengers to stream movies and TV shows, shop online and connect multiple devices while onboard.
Many airlines are turning to Starlink as it provides the fastest Wi-Fi on flights. Using 10,000 satellites, it has considerably improved the onboard internet experience which has pleased many passengers. Particularly passengers on long-haul flights.
The United Kingdom and Europe already have the luxury of making in-flight calls, however, it is discouraged as a noise courtesy rule. So why have it you have probably asked? Well, because some people want it.
Not all will use it. In the USA, making phone calls on board a flight is strictly forbidden. While Australians seem to have a high regard for courtesy and so inflight calls are banned on Australian airlines. So it doesn’t sound like these country’s airlines will follow British Airways suit. Only time will tell!
Would you make phone calls on your flight if you were allowed? Will this make you choose to travel aboard a British Airways flight?
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